Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God

Psalm 51:17 teaches that a broken spirit and a contrite heart are precious in the sight of God, for He does not despise them. This reminder leads me to acknowledge a truth I should never forget, I am a sinner who stands only because of God’s abundant mercy. His compassion alone erases my sins and renews my life through the precious blood of His Son, Jesus. Each new beginning I experience is rooted in His gracious willingness to forgive.

Because I am upheld by mercy, I am called to extend mercy to others. I must honor the broken and contrite hearts placed before me, whether they are members of my congregation, my patients, or those who do not share my faith. God receives the humbled soul, and I must learn to receive them as well.

Whenever my inner desire urges me to elevate myself or claim credit, I should remember that I was brought forth in iniquity and shaped in sin. Any righteousness in me is His work alone. This recognition protects me from pride and redirects my heart toward humility. Without a clean heart before God, I cannot become a vessel through which His grace flows. If my heart is not purified, I cannot be a channel of blessing for my family, my church, or the world.

Therefore, I pray that God continually create in me a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me, so that His mercy and grace may not stop with me but pass through me to all He has entrusted to my care.